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The looming conflict with Iran raises pressing questions about American national security, global stability, and the complex dynamics of domestic politics. Why should Americans care about Iran's nuclear ambitions? The answer transcends simple allegiances to Israel—it's about preventing a regime guided by religious extremism from acquiring weapons that could ultimately threaten American soil.

When examining Iran's capabilities, we must recognize the critical difference between their leadership and other nuclear powers. Unlike North Korea's pragmatic dictatorship, Iran's theocratic leaders embrace martyrdom as virtuous. This religious zealotry makes traditional deterrence strategies potentially ineffective. Meanwhile, disrupting Iran's oil exports creates strategic leverage against China, which depends entirely on Middle Eastern energy—revealing how Middle East policy connects directly to our competition with Beijing and broader national interests.

Against this backdrop, I explore why Jewish Americans predominantly vote Democratic despite many holding economically conservative views. The answer lies in the persistent anti-Semitism from figures like Tucker Carlson and Marjorie Taylor Greene, who perpetuate dangerous tropes about Jewish power and influence. While problematic voices exist on both sides of the political spectrum, right-wing anti-Semitism is perceived as more mainstream within Republican circles, explaining why "when push comes to shove, we value our lives far more than money." This political reality demonstrates how identity and security concerns often transcend economic interests in shaping voting patterns. As military action in the Middle East unfolds, these intersecting forces of national security, geopolitical strategy, and domestic politics will continue shaping America's response to global challenges.

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